Quick answer: with diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid This combination of symptoms is often caused by accelerated gastric emptying, malabsorption, or the side effects of antacids. These factors alter the balance of the gut flora, leading to digestive complaints. To determine the exact cause, a specialist examination is required, such as gastroscopy and colonoscopy under general anaesthesia.
In everyday life, a great many women are affected by various digestive problems. It can be particularly frightening and exhausting when the diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid These symptoms often go unreported. Many people suffer in silence for weeks or months because they are afraid of medical examinations and uncomfortable procedures. It is understandable if you are worried about your symptoms, as they can significantly impair your quality of life, making it difficult to work and take part in family activities.
You should know, however, that you are not alone in facing this problem, and that there are gentle, pain-free solutions available. The digestive system is a complex mechanism in which the condition of the stomach and the intestines are closely linked. If the stomach’s functioning is disrupted, this often causes problems in the lower sections of the intestines as well.
In this article, we explain in simple, easy-to-understand terms and in detail why these symptoms develop and what steps you can take towards recovery. We reveal how modern medicine can help without you having to endure pain or discomfort.
![Causes and treatment of diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid]
Why does diarrhoea often occur at the same time as excess stomach acid?
Stomach acid is essential for proper digestion and for killing pathogens. When the body produces too much acid, the stomach lining becomes irritated. As a result, the stomach may pass semi-digested food into the small intestine more quickly. The digestive system cannot process this sudden influx of acidic, undigested food quickly enough. Ultimately, this leads to malabsorption, which accelerates bowel movements and results in loose stools.
In addition, there is another common, indirect cause. Many people take antacid medication, known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), on a long-term basis to relieve acid reflux. These medicines drastically reduce the amount of stomach acid. With less acid, bacteria entering the body with food are able to survive the passage through the stomach more easily and can multiply in the small intestine. This condition leads to an imbalance in the gut flora, which in turn causes chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
It is therefore worth understanding that the stomach and the intestines form a single, continuous tract. Any imbalance in one section can trigger problems in the other, like a domino effect. Choose a reliable specialist to identify the exact causes, so that the treatment can be truly effective.
What conditions might be causing diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid?
A wide range of different medical conditions may underlie digestive complaints. Making the correct diagnosis is crucial for selecting the appropriate treatment. Our specialist doctors have decades of experience in identifying and treating the following conditions. Let’s take a look at the most common causes!
Helicobacter pylori infection
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that colonises the lining of the stomach. Research suggests that a significant proportion of the human population carries this pathogen. The infection causes inflammation of the stomach lining, which disrupts normal acid production. In some cases, acid production increases, leading to heartburn and upper abdominal pain. The inflammation caused by the bacterium affects the entire digestive process, so loose stools often accompany the symptoms.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that mainly affects middle-aged women. In this condition, the bowel is hypersensitive to stress and certain foods. Although IBS does not in itself cause increased acid production, patients often experience concurrent symptoms of reflux and dyspnoea (indigestion). In people with IBS, bowel movements are disrupted, leading to cramps and an urgent need to pass stools.
Contaminated small bowel syndrome (SIBO)
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria that are normally present in the large intestine migrate back into the small intestine and multiply there. As mentioned earlier, this is often a consequence of long-term acid-suppressing treatment. The overgrown bacteria begin to ferment the food consumed, leading to excessive gas production, bloating and frequent, loose stools. SIBO is diagnosed using specialised breath tests.
What symptoms accompany excess stomach acid and gastrointestinal complaints?
Patients come to the surgery with a wide variety of complaints. The diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid In addition, there are numerous other warning signs that may draw attention to the problem. The more accurately you can describe your symptoms to your doctor, the sooner you can receive effective help.
A common complaint is a burning sensation behind the breastbone, which worsens after meals or when lying down. In addition, acid reflux may occur, when stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus or even into the mouth, accompanied by an unpleasant, burning taste. Many people complain of an unexplained feeling of fullness, bloating and nausea, even after eating only a small amount of food.
Gastrointestinal involvement is indicated by an urgent need to pass stools, lower abdominal cramps and changes in bowel habits. These physical symptoms may also be accompanied by fatigue, general weakness and malaise. If you experience unexplained weight loss, black stools or difficulty swallowing, consult a doctor immediately, as these may be so-called „alarm” symptoms.
![The procedure for gastroscopy and colonoscopy]
How does Endomedix go about making an accurate diagnosis?
When it comes to digestive problems that significantly impair quality of life, guesswork does not lead to a solution. Endomedix’s highly qualified and empathetic team is committed to providing patients with the most accurate diagnosis possible, whilst ensuring the greatest possible comfort. All the latest diagnostic tools used in gastroenterology are available at our clinics.
Every process is a thorough with a consultation with a specialist in gastroenterology The consultation begins. Our doctors will ask you in detail about your symptoms, previous medical conditions and eating habits. The aim of the first appointment is to allay your fears and draw up a clear, step-by-step plan for your examination. Depending on your symptoms, the specialist will decide which laboratory and endoscopic tests are necessary.
The importance of endoscopic examinations
The most accurate assessment of the condition of internal organs is carried out using endoscopic examinations (endoscopies). We know that many people are terrified of these procedures, but modern medicine now offers gentle solutions. For the examination of the oesophagus, the stomach and the initial section of the duodenum, the GASTROSCOPY UNDER ANAESTHESIA the most appropriate method. This test can shed light on the causes of hyperacidity, inflammation or ulcers.
To map the lower sections of the digestive tract, including the entire large intestine, the COLONOSCOPY UNDER ANAESTHESIA It is used to detect inflammatory processes and prevent the development of tumours by removing small polyps.
If the doctor considers it appropriate to examine both the upper and lower digestive tracts at the same time, it is possible to GASTRIC AND COLONOSCOPY UNDER ANAESTHESIA to carry it out as well.
Why do we choose anaesthesia rather than sedation?
Many people ask what the difference is between general anaesthesia and sedation. It is very important to clarify: For medical reasons, at Endomedix we only use general anaesthesia; we do not use sedation. During sedation, the patient often remains awake, may feel pain or an unpleasant sensation of tightness, and may retain unpleasant memories of the examination.
The deep anaesthesia with propofol that we use guarantees that you will feel no pain whatsoever. The procedure is supervised by an experienced anaesthetist, who continuously monitors your vital signs. You simply fall asleep, and once the examination is complete, you wake up feeling refreshed and clear-headed, without any unpleasant memories or feelings of pain. This procedure not only ensures maximum comfort for the patient but also provides the examining doctor with ideal, calm conditions for the precise guidance of the instrument and the establishment of an accurate diagnosis.
What treatment options might help with these symptoms?
Once a diagnosis has been made, the gastroenterologist will recommend a personalised treatment plan. The diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid Treatment always depends on the underlying cause, which is why guidance from a specialist is essential.
As part of drug therapy, doctors often prescribe modern acid-reducing medicines that protect the stomach lining from further damage. In the case of a Helicobacter pylori infection, a specialised, combined course of antibiotics is required to completely eradicate the bacteria. If tests confirm SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), normal gut flora can be restored through targeted antibiotic treatment and the use of probiotics.
In addition to medication, changes to lifestyle and diet are also essential for long-term success. Our dietitians will help you develop a gentle diet that reduces acid production and relieves strain on the digestive system. We recommend eating several small meals a day and avoiding spicy and fatty foods, as well as excessive caffeine intake. Learning stress management techniques can also significantly improve functional digestive complaints. For further lifestyle advice and general health information, it is worth consulting reliable, authoritative sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) its official information leaflets.
Frequently asked questions about diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid
Is the endoscopic examination painful?
Gastroscopy and colonoscopy under general anaesthesia at Endomedix are completely pain-free. For medical reasons, we use general anaesthesia exclusively, rather than sedation. Thanks to the deep anaesthesia, you will not feel a thing during the procedure.
How quickly does the medication take effect?
Acid-reducing medicines often provide significant relief from heartburn within the first few days. However, it may take several weeks for gastrointestinal symptoms to subside and for the gut flora to recover, which is why it is important to follow the treatment exactly as prescribed.
What can I eat whilst I’m on my way to see the doctor?
Try to eat light, easily digestible foods. Boiled potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables and lean meats are recommended. Avoid alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks and very fatty or spicy foods, as these can increase acid production.
Are there any non-invasive (instrument-free) examination methods?
Yes, laboratory blood and stool tests, as well as specialised breath tests, can provide a great deal of information. However, endoscopic procedures provide the most reliable results for assessing the exact condition of the mucous membrane and for taking any necessary biopsy samples.
Is private healthcare affordable at Endomedix?
We have set our prices so that they are affordable even for families on an average income. Furthermore, the fees for our services can be claimed against a health savings account, which can provide significant financial relief.
Summary and next steps
with diarrhoea caused by excess stomach acid The combination of these symptoms is a serious warning sign from the body. You should not simply put up with daily pain and discomfort. With the right medical care, these symptoms can be effectively managed, and you can regain a balanced, peaceful everyday life.
A team of highly qualified and understanding doctors awaits you at Endomedix’s nationwide network. We take great care to ensure that you feel safe during your examinations, and we guarantee pain-free treatment. Don’t put off getting back to good health any longer!
Take the first step towards recovery and sign up today for a for a specialist gastroenterology consultation! Your health, your choice – we provide the expertise and care to support you.
